Air New Zealand and Pratt & Whitney Invest US$150 Million in New Engine Capabilities

On November 7, 2024, Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand held a groundbreaking ceremony for an expansion of the Christchurch Engine Centre, which will add maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities for the GTF engine. This US$150 million investment spans 14,000 square meters and aims to boost the facility's capacity for up to 140 GTF engine overhauls annually by 2032. The expansion aligns with the growing aviation demand in the Asia-Pacific region, as stated by New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. Originally founded in 1948 by Air New Zealand, the Christchurch Engine Centre currently employs over 400 staff and has serviced more than 1,500 IAE V2500 engines. The new capabilities will enhance the airline's ability to maintain its fleet, particularly as it anticipates receiving more Airbus A320/A321neo aircraft in the upcoming years. Additionally, the facility will continue servicing the V2500 engines used in various aircraft models. This collaboration is expected to contribute positively to New Zealand's economy, adding approximately 200 high-value jobs in the Canterbury region. Both companies are committed to sustainability, with Pratt & Whitney emphasizing its efforts to protect the environment and ensure the health and safety of employees. The Christchurch Engine Centre's development represents a strategic move for Air New Zealand to increase its operational capacity while helping the country adapt to the anticipated growth in the aviation sector over the next two decades.